Good morning, Lafayette.

Bob Miller, a Lafayette tech veteran, launched IRGame, an AI-powered gamification platform that compresses tabletop incident response training into a high-intensity simulation.

The tool replicates real-life crisis challenges by prompting quick team decision-making.

Acadiana is celebrating Mardi Gras with a packed parade schedule in Lafayette.

Events run from the Lafayette Krewe de Canailles Walking Parade on Feb. 6 to multiple parades on Feb. 7, 13, 14, 16, and 17 as families prepare for Fat Tuesday.

Local history is in focus as the Acadian Museum displays exhibits on Louisiana's Revolutionary War role and the DAR honors patriot Jean Mouton (from Lafayette) with a plaque at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Cemetery.

July 4 events will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The Lafayette Parish School System says schools will open today as temperatures rise above freezing by 10 a.m. Bus routes, heating and utilities are operational to keep students indoors until conditions improve.

Carencro Elementary school counselor Katy Twiner was named one of three finalists for an Education All-Stars award and will be honored at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s men’s basketball game on Feb.

7.

A winter storm left parts of Louisiana with heavy ice and power outages affecting 114,881 customers, and Entergy Louisiana said most will have power restored by mid week with full service expected by Jan.

29.

Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet urged residents to check on elderly family members and avoid unnecessary travel while LCG road crews treat roads during the morning commute in cold weather & advise drivers to slow down for safety.

Health officials say Lafayette Parish’s measles vaccination rate of 85.8% for kindergarteners is below the 95% herd immunity target, raising future infection risks; experts advise parents to consult pediatricians — a trusted source — for updated vaccine guidance.

Acadiana hospitals report a shortage of O-negative blood amid harsh winter conditions, stressing its role in emergencies.

Interested donors may call Our Lady of Lourdes at (337) 470-4483 or Vitalant at (877) 258-4825 to schedule an appointment.

Lafayette offers diverse ways to boost wellness — from outdoor activities like a scenic walk at Moncus Park and kayak tours on Lake Martin to indoor options at large facilities such as Red’s Fitness Center.

Residents can also join the upcoming spring Zydeco Marathon for a community run.

Lafayette restaurants are revamping menus by sourcing local, seasonal produce to create farm-to-table meals (offering modern twists that honor heritage) at community hubs like Scratch Farm Kitchen, Five Mile Eatery, Mercy Kitchen, Market Eatz, Sandra’s Cafe, and Rachael’s Cafe.

Louisiana baseball will begin their 2026 season on Feb.

13 at home, hosting Missouri State at Russo Park. Head coach Matt Deggs revamped the team last season, and they will face LSU + other SBC opponents throughout the schedule.

The Rest & Renewal Experience

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Enterprise Business Center of Louisiana — Ages 18+ — A curated experience centered on vision and connection to release the weight of 2025 and move into 2026 with renewed direction.

Mardi Gras Mambo II

1-3 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $30 per person — Enjoy a family-friendly art session in a lively atmosphere.

Courir de Mardi Gras

10 AM – 4 PM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Free entry — Experience a vibrant family-friendly Mardi Gras run with traditional music and gumbo gathering.

Roux Fest Gumbo Cookoff

5-8 p.m. — Blackham Coliseum — Proceeds support local nonprofits — Experience a vibrant gumbo showdown blending tradition and innovation with live music.

The Hub Lafayette Runwell 5K Walk/Run

8 AM – 12 PM — Geaux Run by Fleet Feet — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a family-friendly 5K and Kids Fun Run in Lafayette.

SPE International Conference on Formation Damage Control

February 18-20 — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette — Check website for cost — A conference focusing on engineering challenges in formation damage control.

Chris Thomas King Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the soulful sounds of Chris Thomas King, a significant figure in folk blues history.

Ragin' Cajuns All Girl Cheer Clinic

3:00–6:00 p.m. — EK Long Annex — Registration required — Elevate your cheer skills with hands-on training and recruitment opportunities led by experienced coaches.